Scripture:

Numbers 13-14

Deuteronomy 1-2

Hebrews 3:12-13

 

A serious danger lurks. The threat demands attention. Read the history (Numbers 13-14; Deuteronomy 1-2). When Israel disobeyed God, the outcome was devastating. Now, these first century Hebrew Christians are on the brink of a repeat. You and I are also being warned.

The lurking danger was and is unbelief! God told Israel to enter and conquer Canaan. They understood the voice of God but, they refused. Their unbelief provoked God and Israel suffered severe consequences.

How can believers defend themselves? What are the action steps? The instructions are this text (Hebrews 3:12-13). First, is the alert, know the danger! Hear the sounding alarm. Then, hear and obey the imperative, “But encourage one another day after day . . .”

Encourage is the English translation of a Greek verb, parakalĕō. This compound word portrays one person calling or being called to another. The context helps us see one believer going to another with an urgent, biblical message to persevere. Faithfulness is a must. Faith is the victory.

This is the offensive strategy. Believers exhort believers. Believers exhort other believers every day. Believers, encouraging other believers, are thereby themselves encouraged.

 

    Mike Sanders is the former minister of Buechel Church of Christ and retired UPS Pilot.  He resides in Louisville, KY.